Papillon Hy-Vee is a popular employer for teenagers seeking first-time jobs. Of its 461 local employees, 35% are teenagers, with 76 aged 14-17, and 84 aged 18-19.
Store Director Brandon Williams praised Hy-Vee’s young employees, saying that “they're excited to work. Which is great! For some of them, this is their first job, and they're super excited to be out doing their own thing. It’s kind of their first real sense of independence.”
Besides providing a first paycheck, Williams said Hy-Vee seeks to build better futures for its teen employees. “We want to make sure they are successful in life when they leave and that they learn a lot of things. When they learn a good work ethic and how to handle different personalities and customer situations, we find it can be really beneficial."
BRODY CARTER, 18 (3 years):
Why did you decide to continue working at Hy-Vee when you start college at UNL in the fall? “Their transfer process is super easy, and I can continue working the same job.”
Describe a memorable moment when you helped a shopper.
“There was an older veteran, and I helped him out to his car. He tried to give me a $20 tip, but I said no, I don't need a tip. My grandpa was a veteran.”
What are your plans for the future? “To be on ESPN or NFL Network as a TV anchor or a sports guy on ABC or KETV.”
KARA HAND, 17 (2 years):
How does your job help you connect with the community? “I see a lot of regulars there and [have made] connections. I see a lot of teachers and students. I always say hi to everybody.”
Why did you pick Hy-Vee as the job for you? “I got a job at 15. [I] used to work the cash register, then I moved to Starbucks.”
What impression do you hope to leave on customers? “Hy-Vee's a good store and has ‘A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle’ – that’s our motto. I feel a lot of employees are friendly and always willing to help.”
PEYTON BODE, 18 (2 years):
Why did you pick Hy-Vee as the job for you? “[It’s] very close to where I live and a good job to start out with.”
What are your plans for the future? “I am planning on going to college at UNO in Business.”
What role has Hy-Vee played in preparing you? “[It] helped me get a budget so I can get a little bit of money – and found some good life skills talking to different people with different backgrounds.”
What impression do you hope you leave on Hy-Vee shoppers? “When they feel good leaving with everything they have in their shopping cart.”
This article and photography was provided by the Papillion La Vista South Journalism Class.